The tension doesn't leave Castiel, really, and Sam's not certain how much he really LIKES the submission in the nod. But he knows that it's how Castiel knows to act and he was warned by Gabriel, at least as much as his friend could warn him.

Gabriel nods to Castiel, glancing to Sam as he goes to sit down. "Always glad to come and partake of Ellen's food. Especially anything she's made pie."

Dean snorts as he sits. "You get pie last, Gabriel."

Which gets Dean smacked by Ellen on the way past. "Guests get served first, Dean, you know that."

And it makes Sam laugh as he pulls Castiel's seat out for him again. "Keep that up, Dean, and you might be getting your pie last."

There's still tension around the table, but Sam thinks it helps. He sits down, reaching out to take Castiel's hand under the table.